Russian planes in the airspace of the United States can be intercepted, the crews will be detained, the Federal Aviation Administration said.
“Operated aircraft specified in the instruction that do not comply with it may be intercepted, their pilots and other crew members detained and interrogated by law enforcement or security officials,” the aviation administration said (quoted from “RIA News”).
An exception will be made for aircraft involved in humanitarian operations approved by the aviation authorities, and airliners flying for diplomatic purposes. The statement clarifies that the aircraft must first obtain the appropriate permission from the US Department of Transportation.
On February 24, Russia launched a military special operation in Ukraine. Western countries have responded to this with sanctions, including those related to airspace: Russian aircraft can no longer fly over the US, EU, UK and Canada.
